HospitalInspections.org

Based on record review and interview the facility failed to initiate an investigation of a grievance in a timely manner and in compliance with hospital policy for 1 of 9 patient complaints and grievance investigations reviewed by the Department of Health (DOH) survey team. Findings:

-During the Federal Allegation survey, DOH survey staff reviewed a sample of nine complaint and grievance investigations conducted by the hospital.

-The Director of Social Work and Community Reentry was interviewed during the morning of 6/29/2017 regarding the hospital's investigation of the index case. She stated on interview that she received, via e-mail, an allegation of patient abuse on 6/9/2017. She stated she forwarded the e-mail that same evening to the Director of Nursing for Behavioral Health.

-Interview of the Director of Nursing for Behavioral Health conducted during the morning of 6/29/2017 revealed the investigation was not initiated until 6/14/2017, five days later.

-Review of the administrative policy and procedure entitled "Complaints and Grievances" (revision date 04/2016) conducted on 6/29/2017 indicates that "All serious allegations, such as neglect and abuse that may endanger the patient will be reviewed immediately ..."